Hmm, so it’s official: fall has arrived and our summer attire departs. So we’ve got the scoop on how to mix and match layers of sweaters of all sorts and which colors we will be adorned in, but what about our makeup? Say a happy ‘ta-ta!’ to Bronze Summer Goddess Babe because, honey, it’s time to change it up once again to something warm and start afresh!

FAIR-SKIN HOTTIES

Daytime: Opt for a natural light-hearted earthy look. First apply iridescent pearl eye shadow to the inside corner of your eyes, lightly brushing to the middle: this really opens them up. Then apply a medium brown eye shadow starting from the middle of your eyelid right to the end to enhance those beautiful eyes. No eyeliner is needed because we’re looking fresh this morning, but dark brown mascara is a do!

Night time: All you need to do is add a darker shade of eye shadow to the crease of your eyes and blending to just above the medium brown you’ve already got going for you. Apply this same shade in an eyeliner format and proceed to smudge. Done and done.  (A suggestion, perhaps? Add a peach colored blush to complement those daring eyes (it also adds softness to cuteness).

Need to visualize? Wear this look with Triumph’s Lace Sensation Underwire Bra - comfortable yet sexy for a naturally gorgeous effect.

1832 Shape Sensations Lace Bra by Triumph, available at Now That's Lingerie.com

OLIVE-SKINNED DOLLS

Daytime: Go for a medium shade of blue this fall. Like a turquoise. Why not? Once again start the iridescent wonders of opening up and popping those eyes starting from the inside corners to blending in a lovely fresh shimmery turquoise from the middle of the lid to the end. Apply two coats of black mascara (maybe even a deep navy blue mascara…oooh yes!) and off you go!

Night time: Apply a navy blue to the crease of your lid, blending into the turquoise, as your making your way to the end of your upper lid. Smoke that gorgeous eye by applying the same navy blue eye shadow under your eye and proceed with one more layer of mascara to let your eyes do the flirting!

(May I suggest? …Go for a deep tan to contour those cheek bones. Meow.)

Visualize this look with: Blue Emotions Lacy Underwired Bra by Naturana Exklusiv.

DARKER-SKINNED BEAUTIES
 

Daytime: Hmm, did someone say ‘Purple Rain’? Unleash your subtle vixen by applying a shimmery tan coloured eye shadow to the inside corners of your eyes moving your way to the middle lid. Continue this stroke of luck by adding some shimmery plum purple eye shadow. Don’t forget two coats of mascara to enhance those beautiful eyes.

Night time: Vixen at full fierceness! Apply a charcoal gray eye shadow to add smouldering to already sultry. Again, apply to lower lash line and away you go. Try not to stop traffic…though we know you will!

(Allow me if I may… Apply a rosy-raisin shade of blush to the apples of your cheeks. Oh, what a stunner!)

Look ultra-sophisticated when you pair it with this Naked Envy Long Semi Sheer Lace Chemise by Blush Lingerie.

222454 Naked Envy Long Gown by Blush, available at Now That's Lingerie

Have fun with your makeup! Please comment below, email me or connect with us via Twitter & Facebook for more suggestions or ideas!

- Katrina
katrina@nowthatslingerie.com

If just the thought of wearing orange is still a little frightening to you, start with something small, like trying an orange pair of shoes, a bag or maybe a little orange jewelry to spice up your look.  As the seasons change and the bright colors turn to more muted tones, we often find ourselves clinging to those last few bright and colorful summer clothes.  Lucky for us, this fall brings a bright color into the mix.  We know it is said that orange and black are considered Halloween colors, but orange is not just for your Jack-O-Latern anymore.

Orange, which can classified as this fall’s juicest color is not as hard to wear as you may have originally thought. While orange is definitely a color that is fun and show-stopping, if you wear too much of it you may come across as a traffic pylon rather than a trendspotting woman. If you are going to venture over to the orange side, stick to only one item of orange for every outfit.

Now, you may think orange is a hard color to pull off, but you will be surprised to know that orange is a very flattering color since it instantly adds a natural glow to your skin tone.  It is just a matter of finding the right tone of orange for you.

For fall, we are seeing a range of vibrant tangerines, neon oranges and amped-up corals. When you are wearing a statement color like orange, make sure the color does not overtake you – be confident and make sure your personality shines right through the orange brightness.  (Like any style you try to pull off, confidence is the most important part of your outfit, so wear it well!)

Once you warm up to it, you will be making orange your statement color in no time.  But before you run off to grab yourself some orange pieces, let me leave you with a key piece of advice: wear orange with anything but black, otherwise you may run the risk of looking like a mascot for the Halloween season…

Ask me about fashion, and connect with us on Twitter (@nowthatslingeri) and Facebook!

Erin

erin@nowthatslingerie.com

Featured image: http://www.trendfashions.net/dressed-in-holiday-in-fashion-for-fall-2011-orange
Photo Credit: http://www.omiru.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/orange_fashionweektrend_090708.jpg

Teddies and bodysuits have been teetering on the brink of a fashion revival for the past year or two but now I’m beginning to see them in so many stores now that I can’t help thinking that they’ll be a major trend very soon.

Typical 80's teddies

Silk teddy from the 1920's

They actually originated 150 years ago in the form of ‘combinations’ (a functional merging of long knickers and a camisole). By the 1920′s they had evolved into shorter loose fitting rayon skirt-panty-camisole styles with inside leg buttoning and were considered quite shocking. The current fashionable ‘romper’ styles worn as outerwear (blouse-shorts combinations resembling a short dress) are very similar to these early versions.

When the new easy-care knitted nylon jersey fabrics became widely available during the 1950′s, the ‘combination slip-panty’ (a more fitted item and designed to be worn over a bra), was a popular undergarment ideal for the new shorter fashions.

"Delicious white body briefer" from Vanity Fair featured in Harper's Bazaar 1972

The 1980′s saw a surge in popularity for the “teddy”. Made of silk or polyester satin they were truly  a luxury lingerie item providing little bust or tummy control. They were much shorter, tighter and sexier than their predecessors and a reflection of the “power dressing” trend of the 80′s and early 90′s. Donna Karen epitomized this new trend with her hugly successful shirt-body combinations launched to standing ovations during her first collection in 1985.

The body or bodysuit, a stretchy leotard type item with popper fastening at the gusset, was popularized by the aerobics and dance craze of the 80′s, by films such as Flashdance and Fame and of course by Jane Fonda and her infamous workout videos. New spandex fabrics enabled a tighter fit than was ever possible before, therefore flattering the body as a light control garment, and they were sexy too, with leg openings grazing the hipbones and seep plunging necklines.

Jane Fonda's Workout promoting the high cut body style of the 80's

The Catherine Teddy by Arianne

For a peek at a retro 80′s look (very trendy right now) for teddies, see Arianne’s Catherine lace Teddy. It’s underwired to provide support, features flattering high-cut legs edged with a pretty eyelet lace, and has a thong back so you can avoid the dreaded pantyline!

The Glamour Bodysuit by Grenier has enough bust coverage to wear on it’s own under a jacket or cardigan. It’s lovely lace neckline is pretty for day or evening and the inside molded cup (for opacity, shape and support), and underbust elastic means you can confidently go without a bra!

The Glamour Bodysuit by Grenier

Enjoy the teddy revival with some of my favorites at Now That’s Lingerie.com!

Teresa

teresa@nowthatslingerie.com

Image for 1920′s teddy from Marie McLeod at www.rubylane.com: Sensual c1920′s Silk Teddy * Lace, Satin, Ribbons from mairemcleod on Ruby Lane

80′s teddies image from The Daily Mail Online:  Underwear through the ages: New exhibition charts the rise and fall of the humble bra | Mail Online

Jane Fonda Workout Video image from Virgin Media: Jane Fonda’s Workout – Best and worst celebrity fitness videos – Pictures – Homefamily – Virgin Media

The Heartbreaker Chiffon Thong by Blush Lingerie - adorable party favor

Today’s version of this milestone was inspired by the sexual revolution that women started to enjoy back in the 1960′s as an expression of their sexual freedom and equality. Back then it was a tame affair; a simple dinner with close friends and relatives, maybe a bit of shopping or just going for coffee. By the 1980′s this demure type of bachelorette party was overtaken by pre-wedding revelry . Girls began to adopt the style of the men’s Stag Party and they wanted to have fun! Today the bachelorette party is a firm pre-nuptial tradition. Whether a themed party, an evening of debauchery or an organized vacation – it’s become a huge business with lots of options available, so here are some interesting themes I’ve come across:

Kate Middleton’s sister Pippa organized her a ‘Dirty Dancing’ themed hen night at the family home in England, apparently Kate’s mother is a huge fan, they followed this up with a night on the town.

Host a movie night with lots of back to back chick flicks, hand out swag bags to guests brimming with sexy lingerie, candies, sexy soaps and cosmetics.

Pink Zoo Thongboy by Arianne Lingerie - a cute party giveaway

A cake decorating evening where you make and customize your own cakes, use naughty cake pans and encourage the girls to get creative with colorful icing!

Head to Vegas and spend a few days in Sin City, gamble, drink and recreate your own version of ‘The Hangover’, ladies style.

Pamper Parties – some kind of spa treatment or spa weekend. Drink champagne in the hot tub, girl talk in the sauna, boozy dinners and pyjama parties. And if you can’t get everyone out of town then mobile spas will do manicures, hairstyles and spray tans in the comfort of your own home.

Life drawing – popular with creative types – organize a life drawing class using a male nude model, add cheese and wine.

Mix 'cocktail cupcakes' - www.buybachelorettepartysupplies.com has lots of gorgeous receipes

Learn to dance like Michael Jackson, learn and perform Thriller or any other classic dance routine with you friends, assisted by dance teaching professionals – very useful for showing off at the wedding!

Dress ridiculous – host an ‘Ugly Dress Evening’ – have everyone dress in either an old, unflattering  bridesmaid dress or choose something awful from their closet and then go out on the town . Don’t forget the hair and make-up and have fun picking out accessories too!

Just about anything can pass as a bachelorette party nowadays, so just make sure to spend lots of time with the bride, look after her and have lots of fun!

Teresa

teresa@nowthatslingerie.com

A Charnaux ad from 1936

As the first really elastic material ever produced, early corset makers jumped on rubber’s stretchability as an alternative to the old whalebone corset. Charnaux introduced the first rubber corset in the late 1920′s, a heavy, sweaty undergarment with intricate patterns of perforations providing a little ventilation and some graduated elasticity. The rubber corset, brassiere and girdle became enormously popular, replacing their rigid predecessors and introducing body freedom to a new generation of women. Marketing loved this, since even it’s sweaty characteristics were positively marketed as a weight loss technique. If a woman wanted to sweat the pounds off she wore rubber, and she put up with it’s unmistakable pungent odor too. An advertisement from that time states “Every breath, every movement brings into play the gentle massaging action of the delightfully caressing latex rubber”, sounds delightful!

The 'Adaptolette' from 1937

During the 30′s the words ‘rubber’ and ‘latex’ were dropped for being too unattractive, the most common term became ‘The Reducer‘, a necessary technical undergarment.

By 1935 designers were producing more complicated designs: attaching suspender straps, adding ‘lustre’ lacing across the back, adding interior underbelts to “correct displaced organs”(!), pleated peplums, cups lined in satin and lining the body with cotton jersey to avoid the “clammy embrace of unlined rubber”.

Classic Playtex Girdle with crotch ventilation

The Playtex Girdle first appeared in the 1950′s made from unlined, sometimes perforated latex, later lined with a soft bonded fabric.

Classic 1960's Playtex Girdle

Their phrase “my girdle’s killing me…” has gone down as one of the most famous marketing lines of the 60′s. Playtex invented the figure hugging seamfree concept. Unfortunately their garments with suspenders, like all girdles, suffered from “suspender Bump” therefore ruining the smoothing effect. These new girdles caused profound sweating too and marketing still turned this disadvantage into a positive “fat reducing benefit”. They were also unbelievably difficult to put on, so ‘sticky’ that they couldn’t be wiggled into place. Their clammy coldness caused by changes in temperature and tendency to split and disintegrate over time didn’t help either.

Classic Playtex Girdle with suspenders

The Hold In High Waist Panty By Change Of Scandinavia - the modern 'Reducer'

Playtex featured many of the most popular Hollywood actresses in it’s advertisements – Zsa Zsa Gabor, Maureen O’Hara and Jane Russell. Many actresses actually did wear the Playtex girdle in movies since it was invisible even under the sheerest gown. The late Miss Russell was heavily associated with figure altering foundation garments, Howard Hughes famously developed a special brassiere to emphasise her substantial assets for his movie “The Outlaw”. Once when being interviewed she was asked to what did she attribute her stunning figure. “Underwear”, she replied without hesitation.

Nowadays rubber or latex is extruded into very fine fibers and spun with regular yarns to enhance their elasticity, relatively small amounts can be added and have quite dramatic effects without it effecting the  breathability of a garment.

So thank goodness for Lycra, Spandex, Elastane and their predecessor rubber,

Teresa

teresa@nowthatslingerie.com

image and information credits:

www.corsetiere.net/Spirella/Rubber.htm

Elements of Bliss Wire Free Bra By Warner's Lingerie - microfiber bra

Microfibers were originally intended for space and military uses, then lingerie designers started to use them since their silkiness and fluidity made them perfect for undies. They are synthetically produced yarns finer than a human hair, very luxurious yet machine washable, will not lose their shape, can mold very successfully to the body and they’re breathable. Tactel is a branded microfiber made by Dupont that is commonly used for lingerie.

Tactel Tactel by Change Of Scandinavia - Tactel Hipster

Microfibers can easily be produced with a variety of useful finishes such as anti-bacterial and deodorant. Scientists are even adding microcapsules containing vitamins, moisturizers, anti-aging creams and perfumes to microfibers, and you may have already heard about scented panties!

Lycra is another brand name owned by Dupont which adds elasticity to a fabric and allows it to stretch and recover. Similar stretch products that are added to fabrics are Spandex and Elastane, they have slightly different properties and characteristics but basically do the same thing. Almost all knits used for lingerie need the addition of a stretch fiber. Depending on the end use some will have more than others, for instance shapewear will contain a higher percentage of stretch fiber to grip and tighten around the body than a regular panty. Knitted cottons and modals for sleepwear add a small amount to avoid ‘bagging’ at the knees, elbows and derriere.

Emma Brief by Blush Lingerie - super soft Modal Elastane

Modal is very soft and smooth, breathes well and is beautiful to the touch. Made from reconstituted cellulose from beech trees, it’s actually termed a ‘bio-based’ fabric rather than natural because it still needs chemical processing. It has quite a few advantages over cotton – it’s very absorbent, resistant to shrinking, pilling and fading, and because mineral deposits from hard water don’t stick to the surface it keeps it’s softness even after repeated washing. Micromodal is even finer and silkier than regular modal.

The Elita Bamboo Bikini Brief

Bamboo is made from the pulp of bamboo grass, it’s very quick growing and doesn’t need pesticides or herbicides to thrive therefore plantations can easily be kept organic. If kept unbleached it’s very light on chemicals that could harm the environment. Bamboo fabric is very absorbent, wicking moisture away from the skin and allowing it to breathe. And it’s natrually anti-bacterial, killing odor causing bacteria that live on human skin, making your clothes smell more sweet!

The exciting development of bamboo fabrics has inspired scientists to look at other natural sources of fibers for our clothing. Some beautiful silky fabrics have been created from soyabeans. Fabrics made from banana stalks are environmentally friendly and mixed with cotton are light and absorbent. One Japanese company has even developed a type of viscose made from crab shells!

So go have fun and check out the ‘contents’ label inside your lingerie to see the benefits of the fabric you’re wearing!

Teresa

teresa@nowthatslingerie.com

Before I go on, let me just say, “Brrr!” – is it ever cold out there!  I don’t know about you, but on days like today I can think of nothing more satisfying than curling up with a good book and staying indoors. On my list of necessities for these comfy-cozy “me days” are the following:

1. Some good, escapist reading material
2. Black Chai Tea (with plenty of milk and sugar!)
3. Smooth, easy-listening background music
4. Light, comfortable and non-restrictive loungewear!

Since I am a total closet nerd, I’ve got mountains of books and, lucky for me, I have boxes upon boxes of tea in my cupboard (thanks to my loving mother and my grandmother – who swears by tea as the surefire cure for every ailment under the sun).  Also, being the music addict I am, I’ve got a stack of new albums just begging for me to play them. Needless to say I won’t be running out of these things anytime soon!

The deciding factor in my enjoyment of all three, however, is often what I’m wearing! After all, how captivated can you be by a moving book or song, if all you can think about is how itchy the waistband on your pants is? While I confess, I’ve got one trusty pair of very old, rather tattered, acid-wash sweatpants, on “personal days” such as these – when rest, relaxation and rejuvination is my ultimate goal – I’d rather slip into something soft and pretty!

Blush and Arianne are two lines of lingerie that offer some truly sophisticated and excellent quality that are so comfy you might forget you’re wearing anything at all, without sacrificing style for comfort! I am infatuated with the Midnight Affair Striped Silk Cotton Pants by Blush Lingerie; the thick waistband doesn’t cut into my belly (yep, I’ll admit to a little pooch!) and the cute button embellishments offer a unique touch. Arianne’s Liliane Camisole with Adjustable Straps is great, too! As a woman who needs a little support to feel comfortable, the adjustable straps of this cami are invaluable, and the bright pink colour is absolutely adorable.

Well, I’m off to curl up and enjoy my day off. Here’s hoping you will all get the chance to do the same over the weekend!

Keep Warm!

Rachel

Well, I must say, it is nice to be back in Montreal. Despite the bitter cold, it felt great to step out of the airport yesterday evening and inhale the crisp, fresh air. While I am anxiously awaiting spring’s arrival, the fact of the matter is that Montreal is a beautiful city all year round. Its gorgeous, cobblestone streets in the Old Port and the diversity of its people make Montreal a truly cosmopolitan urban center. But what would Montreal be without the wooded slopes of Mont Royal, the St. Lawrence River and its countless parks? The city would be almost unrecognizable.

Serendipity Cotton Eyelet Strapless Corset by Blush Lingerie

This is one of the many reasons I believe in living an eco-friendly lifestyle – and trust me, it’s easier than it seems! Contributing to the preservation of our wonderful environment can be as simple as eating one vegetarian meal per day, committing to the use of reusable shopping bags or cutting a couple of minutes of your usual shower time. Many industries have already taken action towards minimizing their carbon footprint, including the wonderful world of fashion!

By using natural materials in the clothing they produce, companies are helping their consumers make a difference. Bamboo, for example, requires a remarkably low amount of water to grow, and not only that, but it actually has natural antibacterial properties – meaning no pesticides are used in its production and clothing that does not retain odor like other fabrics can! Cotton, too, is an excellent choice for the environmentally friendly fashionista, as sunlight transforms the plant into a fibre even before harvesting, eliminating energy-hungry intermediate processing steps.

Here are some examples of eco-friendly pieces from Arianne, Bra Doctor, Change of Scandinavia, Elita and Eva lingerie. Who knew being green could look this good?

Light Luxury Cotton Hipster Panty by Bra Doctor Lingerie

Bra Doctor’s Light Luxury Low-Rise Hipster: Keep it simple with this comfy and versatile panty! Made with cotton and a nice low-rise shape, these are great for low slung jeans and offer full bum coverage in skirts and dresses.

Elita’s Bamboo Camisole With Shelf Bra: A cami & a bra all in one! Sleek silhoutte, smoothes out any lumps & bumps, prevents too much cleavage and can even be worn on its own, without a bra!

Naturana Plus Sizes 3-Section Full Cup Underwire Bra: Naturana offers some excellent plus-size options, this one included. Pretty and ultra-practical, this three-section bra provides comfortable lift, with wide straps and wings to keep you from tumbling out!

Bamboo Camisole with Shelf Bra by Elita Lingerie

Elita Bamboo Classic High-Cut Brief: Another great panty, this one is higher-cut, great for the high-waisted trend that’s making itself known for yet another summer!

Blush Serendipity Cotton Eyelet Strapless Corset: This sweet corset proves that cotton can be sexy too! A 50′s-inspired, vintage-looking option that is both eye-catching and versatile with its removable straps, this piece can’t be beat, and looks incredible when paired with matching panties and a garter belt – also offered by Blush lingerie.

Until next time!

Xoxo,

Rachel

Sources:

http://www.suite101.com/content/environmentally-friendly-clothes-choose-renewable-eco-fabrics-a309967
http://cottontoday.cottoninc.com/sustainability-about/cotton-vs-other-fibers/

Eat your way to a better, healthier lifestyle with berries, high in antioxidants.

1. Get in touch with Mother Nature. Exploring the great outdoors is a natural, fun and surefire way to stay healthy while enjoying activities as diverse as rock climbing, kayaking, hiking, jogging, biking and waterskiing.  Let the sun naturally fuel your body with Vitamin D, which helps regulate calcium, boosts your immune system and helps prevent osteoporosis, and leaves you energized.  Use sunscreen with at least an SPF 15 to keep harmful rays from damaging your skin.

Tri-Action Wire-Free Sports Bra by Triumph International, available at Now That's Lingerie.com

2. Get a REAL Sports Bra THAT FITS. Over time, your bras naturally wear and tear, making it crucial to renew your wardrobe at least once a year and make sure your bras fit properly.  This DEFINITELY includes your sports bras!  Your breasts’ and skin’s elasticity decrease naturally with age, pregnancy, weight loss or gain, etc. If you wear a sports bra that doesn’t support properly, this process is sped up, making your breasts bounce and causing small tears in the ligaments that keep your breasts firm, potentially causing sagging.

3. Vitalize. Get a dose of energizing, exotic fruits rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals like pomegranate, berries and kiwi, or veggies like peppers, spinach and ginger.  Incorporate these into your breakfast to get a kick-start to your day, or fill small tupperware with fun salads to grab when you’re on the go or for a healthy mid-morning or afternoon snack to get a natural, revitalizing boost of vitamins and minerals without the burnout effects of caffeine or energy drinks.  Pecans, walnuts, hazelnuts, and sunflower seeds are also rich in antioxidants and are a super tasty and creative add-in to your cereals and fruit salads.

4. Clear your mind and lower stress.  Try meditating, yoga, tai chi or other relaxing, invigorating low-impact exercises that tone your body, relieve stress and help you relax.  Doing any kind of physical activity boosts endorphins, increases muscle and blood circulation, which will make you feel happier and less stressed.

Yoga balances body and mind, relieving your stress.

5. Clean out your space. Organize To-Do lists, recycle old newspapers and magazines, tidy your drawers, or host a garage sale on your block.  Donate clothes that no longer fit or that are just so 90′s you’ll never wear them again.  By getting rid of clutter in your personal space, you’ll ease your mind and feel refreshed, instead of stressed and claustrophobic. Plus, you’ll also have much more room to store the shoe boxes stacked five feet high in your closet…

Share YOUR tips for fitness and healthy eating with us!
Comment here or e-mail me (Lisa) at nowthatsliving@nowthatslingerie.com.